When you have a Type A personality — always needing to be doing something — taking a break isn't easy.

I've never been one to sit and twiddle my thumbs. Sitting and doing nothing makes me feel lazy. Since I have only so much time in life, I want to make the best use of every minute. Having this tendency opens me up to the possibility of over-commitment and burnout. What others ask of me, I usually agree to do — often not pausing long enough to pray first. I love seeing how much I can accomplish in 24 hours. Not that I crave recognition or do things for recognition, but like most people, I enjoy being appreciated. Sitting for hours watching a movie or relaxing in conversation with company is difficult. My mind races, thinking about all the things that I could be doing that would seem more productive.

Jesus was a busy man. Knowledge of His ability to heal spread like a California wildfire. Crowds crowded around Him. Everyone wanted healing for themselves, a friend, or a family member. Had He taken advantage of every opportunity, He would never have gotten any rest or sleep.

Mark 1:35-38 – Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Later Simon and others went out to find him. When they found him, they said, "Everyone is looking for you." But Jesus replied, "We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came." (NLT)

Breaks from the daily grind of life are essential for good health — mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual. We can't do everything that everyone might ask of us. There's not enough time in the day, nor does God expect that of us. Jesus knew that He needed rejuvenation, and it came through a quiet time with the Father.

Quiet times — whether in the early morning, late morning, or evening — are crucial in our service for God. Not only did Jesus' spirit receive refreshing, but He also received instructions from the Father about His next move. Ironically, it wasn't to be where He was — even though there were many there who needed His help. Rather, the Father told Him to move to a different area.

Enjoying life and making sure that we're on God's track happen only when we've taken a break long enough to discover God's will. So, go ahead, take a break — and don't feel guilty about it.

Prayer: Father, remind us that we need breaks to refresh our spirits so that we can do our best for You. Amen.

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About the author:

Martin Wiles <mandmwiles@gmail.com>
Greenwood, South Carolina, USA
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